I Bet You Didn't Know This Simple Trick Can Make Your Halloween Pumpkin Last Longer

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I have to admit, I never knew there was such a simple way to help a carved Halloween pumpkin last a little longer. You spend all that time carving the face, only to watch it start getting soft, shriveled and moldy a few days later.

Apparently, there are a couple of simple things you can do after carving that can slow that process down. One of them involves something you probably already have at home.


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The Trick Is To Protect The Cut Surfaces

Once you carve a pumpkin, you have basically opened the door to moisture loss and microorganisms that can cause it to deteriorate. That is why a perfectly good-looking pumpkin can start looking pretty sad surprisingly quickly.

One simple trick recommended by University of Illinois Extension is to coat the freshly cut surfaces with petroleum jelly. The idea is to help reduce moisture loss from the exposed pumpkin flesh.

So after carving, clean out the inside thoroughly and wipe the cut edges clean. Then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the exposed cut surfaces.



There is another interesting trick too. If you are lighting your pumpkin with a traditional candle, consider switching to a battery-powered light. The heat from a candle can actually contribute to the pumpkin deteriorating faster.

Utah State University Extension also recommends removing as much of the pumpkin's interior as possible and says petroleum jelly can help lock in moisture. It also discusses using a bleach solution to help kill microorganisms, although bleach needs to be handled carefully and should never be mixed with other household chemicals.

I think the petroleum jelly trick is the one I would remember. It takes almost no time, costs very little and could help your jack-o'-lantern stay presentable for a few more days.

And honestly, after spending time carving that perfect Halloween face, getting a few extra good-looking days out of it sounds pretty worthwhile.

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